Backpacking Central America is an 18-day small-group trip through 10 stops, Playa del Carmen, Mexico to Antigua, Guatemala, from $3,205 per person with a $350 deposit. Chichén Itzá and Tulum, the Belize Barrier Reef, Tikal’s ruins and Lake Atitlán. For travellers aged 20-45, in groups of 6-20, with 14 activities and 24 meals. Departures run from 18 September 2026.
Enjoyed every second of my trip! Would highly recommend. Had the best time with my Tour guide Tess! she was so lovely and also helpful. If we wanted to go somewhere she’d recommend us places to go/see
Maddie, 12 May 2025
Touch down in Cancun where we’ll be waiting to greet you with a warm welcome and transfer you to the lively beach town of Playa del Carmen. You’ll have time to check into the hotel, freshen up, and unwind before meeting the group and your guide. We’ll finish the day with a group dinner, where you’ll start bonding with your new travel crew.
We kick things off with a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—Chichén Itzá. With a local guide, we’ll dive into the history of this incredible site, exploring the towering Temple of Kukulkan, the sacred cenote, and the Temple of Warriors. Afterwards, we cool off with a refreshing dip in a stunning underground cenote before heading back to Playa for a chilled evening.
It’s time for some beachside culture. We’ll head south to explore the famous cliffside ruins of Tulum, where Mayan temples overlook the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun, grabbing a bite in town, or taking a dip in the ocean before heading back to Playa for a night of tacos, tequila, and tropical vibes.
Today we hit the road and head to Bacalar, known for its unreal lagoon with water so blue it’s called the “Lake of Seven Colours.” After checking into our hotel, we’ll hop aboard a boat and cruise across the lagoon at sunset. Grab a cold drink, take a swim, and enjoy the peaceful views.
We recommend arriving on the official start date, as that’s when most travellers get in. There are no activities planned for the first day, but the group usually meets for dinner around 7pm.
Yes. If you arrive early and stay at our Playa del Carmen accommodation, we’ll still arrange your airport transfer. Extra nights can be pre-paid either with your agent or directly with us.
Please note: you may need to wait for another guest at the airport before your shared transfer departs. Your group leader will confirm this.
The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April. You’ll get plenty of sunshine—perfect for jungles, beaches, and exploring.
The wet season runs from May to November and is quieter. Even then, rain usually falls in short bursts, and the landscapes are lush and green.
We recommend using a Wise travel card, which works with most ATMs and supports Apple Pay and Google Pay. Convert your funds to the local currency to avoid foreign exchange fees.
ATMs are available throughout the region, but always check the machine before using it to avoid scams. Some places accept card, but others are cash-only.
Tipping is not required on our tours, but tipping is common in Central America. Small tips are expected in bars, restaurants, and for services like taxis. If you feel you’ve received great service from your driver or local guide, tipping is appreciated.
Your group leader can recommend tip amounts if you’d like to contribute.
Yes, the areas we visit are safe and popular with tourists. We avoid high-risk regions and take common sense precautions, so you can enjoy the trip with confidence as part of a guided group tour.
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